How can we apply the principle of honoring commitments from Jeremiah 34:8 today? Setting the scene: Jeremiah 34:8 “After King Zedekiah had made a covenant with all the people in Jerusalem to proclaim freedom to the slaves, the word came to Jeremiah from the LORD.” • Judah’s leaders publicly vowed to release their Hebrew slaves, obeying the Law (Exodus 21:2; Deuteronomy 15:12). • Soon afterward they reneged, re-enslaving the freed people (Jeremiah 34:11). • God condemned the breach, showing He takes promises seriously (Jeremiah 34:17-22). Why commitments matter to God • “When a man makes a vow to the LORD… he must not break his word but must do everything he has promised.” (Numbers 30:2) • “When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it… It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.” (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5) • Jesus: “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” (Matthew 5:37) • God’s own nature is faithful: “He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23) Where the rubber meets the road today • Marriage vows • Employment contracts and business agreements • Promises to children, friends, or neighbors • Church covenants, ministry or volunteer commitments • Financial obligations—loans, debts, charitable pledges • Civic oaths or legal testimonies • Agreements to forgive, reconcile, or provide support Practical steps to keep our word 1. Pause and pray before promising. 2. Measure capability—count the cost (Luke 14:28-30). 3. Put the commitment in writing; set reminders. 4. Communicate clearly and early if delays arise. 5. Invite accountability—spouse, mentor, small group. 6. Follow through even when inconvenient (Psalm 15:4). 7. If you fail, confess, make restitution, and finish the task (Proverbs 28:13). 8. Rely on Christ’s strength: “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) Caution: when circumstances change • Legitimate obstacles (illness, job loss, natural disasters) may require renegotiating terms. • Speak truthfully and promptly (Ephesians 4:25). • Offer alternative solutions or timelines (Proverbs 3:27-28). • Avoid using hardship as an excuse for faithlessness (Romans 13:8). Encouragement from God’s own faithfulness • “Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed… great is Your faithfulness!” (Lamentations 3:22-23) • “All the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:20) • His reliability empowers ours (1 Thessalonians 5:24). Blessings of honoring commitments • “A faithful man will abound with blessings.” (Proverbs 28:20) • Trust and credibility deepen—opening doors for gospel witness (Matthew 5:16). • Little-by-little faithfulness prepares us for greater stewardship (Luke 16:10). • Peace of conscience and the joy of imitating our covenant-keeping Lord. |
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